Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Musculoskeletal System

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is crucial in diagnosing musculoskeletal system disorders due to its high precision in visualizing anatomical structures and pathological processes. MRI utilizes a strong magnetic field to provide detailed images of soft tissues—muscles, ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and intra-articular structures—something other radiological methods, such as X-rays (RTG) or Computed Tomography (CT), are less sensitive to. It is particularly important for evaluating injuries, chronic joint issues, tumors, and infections of muscles and bones.

What is MRI of the musculoskeletal system?

MRI of the musculoskeletal system is a non-invasive and safe radiological examination that provides detailed images without harmful ionizing radiation. It shows:

• Bones
• Muscles
• Ligaments
• Tendons

Internal joint structures such as:

• Joint capsules (e.g., ankle, elbow)
• Knee menisci
• Hip and shoulder labrums
• Hands
• Feet

MRI utilizes a strong magnetic field and electromagnetic waves to alter the position of protons in tissues. As the protons return to their original position under the influence of radio waves, energy is released, and signals, which are used to create images of the joint or part of the musculoskeletal system on a computer. Different types of tissues in the MRI scan can be distinguished based on their magnetic properties and the strength of the signals they emit.

Who needs an MRI of the musculoskeletal system?

An MRI is typically recommended by an orthopedic or trauma specialist based on clinical symptoms. Common indications for an MRI include chronic pain, discomfort during movement, or specific motions. Issues that may require an MRI include joint pain, restricted movement, clicking, locking, or dislocations, as well as functional disturbances of the joint that could be congenital, spontaneous, or caused by traumatic events. MRI is also crucial for assessing joint conditions after arthroplasty or artificial joint placement.

In certain cases, such as suspected infectious conditions of the musculoskeletal system, intravenous contrast may be used.

What does MRI of the musculoskeletal system show?

MRI can reveal pathological conditions of bones, muscles, and other soft tissues, such as:

• Sports or occupational injuries: overuse syndromes
• Infections (e.g., osteomyelitis)
• Tumors in muscles, bones, and joints
• Swelling and bleeding in joints and extremities
• Inflammatory changes in joints: rheumatoid arthritis, sacroiliitis
• Degenerative changes in joints

It is particularly important for diagnosing injuries and pathological changes in:

• Shoulder (e.g., labral and capsule tears, rotator cuff injuries, humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligament)
• Hip (e.g., femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), labral and teres ligament tears, free bodies, osteophytes, cartilage damage)
• Elbow (e.g., ligament and capsule tears, partial tears of the medial (ulnar) collateral ligament, free joint bodies)
• Hand (e.g., triangular fibrocartilage complex injuries)
• Knee (e.g., meniscal tears, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears)
• Ankle (e.g., ligament tears, cartilage injuries (osteochondral lesions))

MRI is also crucial for evaluating conditions post-surgery, such as after joint arthroplasties. Since joint prostheses often contain metal parts that can interfere with image quality, the MAGNETOM® Aera MRI machine at Sinteza Clinic uses advanced WARP technology to enhance soft tissue visualization around joint implants, improving assessment of conditions such as osteolysis, tumors, neuropathies, and infections.

Duration of MRI of the Musculoskeletal System

The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes.

Preparation for MRI of the musculoskeletal system

• No special preparation is required, but all metallic items that could be affected by the MRI’s magnetic field should be removed. This includes jewelry, piercings, glasses, mobile phones, keys, watches, credit cards, metal hair accessories, and removable dental prosthetics.
• Wear clothing without metal parts (buttons, zippers, clasps).
• If you are anxious about confined spaces, a mild sedative may be taken 15 to 30 minutes before the procedure.
• Eating, drinking, and taking usual medications are permitted unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.

Risks of MRI

Magnetic resonance imaging of the musculoskeletal system is a completely safe imaging method during which you are not exposed to harmful ionizing radiation.

However, the MRI device resembles a tunnel, and the confined space may trigger claustrophobia in some individuals. The Siemens MAGNETOM® Aera at Sinteza Clinic features an open design and a long tunnel (145 cm), allowing for scans with the patient’s head outside the machine, reducing the feeling of confinement and making the experience more comfortable.

Due to the strong magnetic field, MRI is contraindicated for patients with cardiac pacemakers or implanted cardioverter-defibrillators.

Although the effects of MRI on pregnancy are not scientifically proven, it is recommended only in strong medical indications for pregnant women.

The MRI procedure

• Pre-scan: Complete a health questionnaire and remove all metal items and clothing containing metal.
• Positioning: The radiologic staff will place you in a lying position inside the MRI tunnel. Special coils are placed around the part of the musculoskeletal system or joint being scanned to capture magnetic signals and create images.
• Contrast agent: If required, a cannula will be inserted into your arm for intravenous contrast administration. You may feel warmth throughout your body, a cooling sensation at the injection site, or a change in taste.
• Noise protection: MRI devices make loud noises during the scan, so you will be provided with ear protection to reduce the noise.
• Communication: You will remain alone in the room but can communicate with the staff via intercom. You will also have a small device to signal if you need to stop the scan. The staff may give you instructions via intercom during the scan, such as asking you to momentarily hold your breath.
• Movement: It is important to stay still during the scan to ensure high-quality images.
• After the scan, if contrast was used, the needle will be removed from your arm.

Recovery after MRI of the musculoskeletal system

Most patients experience no need for recovery and can resume normal activities immediately. Some may feel drowsy or dizzy from lying still for the duration of the scan.

If a sedative was taken, wait until its effects wear off before driving. If a contrast agent was used, drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.

If a contrast agent was used, it is recommended to drink larger amounts of fluids throughout the day.

Precautions

Because MRI uses a strong magnetic field, it is essential to inform the radiologic staff about any metal objects in or on your body, including:
cardiac pacemakers, metal clips, removable dental prosthetics, insulin pumps, stents or clips in blood vessels, neurostimulators, artificial heart valves, joint prostheses, cochlear implants, metal fragments or debris, tattoos or permanent makeup containing metals. Some of these items may not be contraindications, but confirmation from the operator is required.

If intravenous contrast is indicated, inform the staff of any kidney-related health issues.

Also, notify the staff if you cannot lie still for an extended period.

For a better patient experience:

• Comfortable MRI room design
• Soft patient support during the scan
• Noise reduction with special patient ear protection
• Audio instructions and support throughout the scan

Technical specifications:

• Tunnel diameter: 70 cm
• Tunnel length: 1.37 m

The price of an MRI for the musculoskeletal system

You can check the price of this service by clicking the provided link.

Service Location

Documents for patients

• Upute za pacijente za MR snimanje
• Pomoć pacijentima za opuštanje tijekom magnetske rezonance u uskom prostoru

Most frequently asked questions: